Cisplatin Resistance: Genetic and Epigenetic Factors Involved

PRMT5 Inhibition Enhances Therapeutic Efficacy of Cisplatin via Mediating miR-29b-3p-Mcl-1 Expression in Lung Adenocarcinoma

Cisplatin is one of the front-line therapeutic agents used to treat cancers, while drug resistance is a great obstacle to anti-tumor efficiency. Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) has been identified as a promoter of tumorigenesis, motility, and invasion. Inhibiting PRMT5 reduced hypoxia-induced carboplatin resistance in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the specific relationship between PRMT5 and cisplatin (CDDP) warrants further investigation. Our research revealed that PRMT5 inhibitor C9 enhanced CDDP chemosensitivity by suppressing proliferation and promoting apoptosis in LUAD cells. Through examining pro-apoptotic proteins regulated by PRMT5, we identified that Mcl-1 played a significant role in PRMT5-mediated CDDP chemosensitivity. Furthermore, PRMT5 regulated Mcl-1 expression through mediating miR-29b-3p. In vivo, our research presented that C9 increased CDDP chemosensitivity in LUAD xenografts. All in all, our data raised an interesting possibility that epigenetic reprogramming was associated with chemosensitivity. PRMT5 inhibitor C9 improved CDDP effectiveness in LUAD cells by inhibiting Mcl-1 expression via miR-29b-3p, thereby modulating cellular proliferation and apoptosis.

LncRNA SNHG14 Facilitates Cisplatin Resistance Through Upregulating Notch2 via Binding to U2AF2 in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (DDP) is one of the commonly used chemotherapeutic drugs for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients, and the resistance of tumor cells to cisplatin is main obstacle for NPC treatment. This study explored effect and possible mechanism of lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host gene 14 (SNHG14) on drug resistance of NPC cells to cisplatin.

METHODS

Levels of SNHG14 and Notch2 in NPC tissues and cells were confirmed using RT-qPCR. Western blot detected Notch2 and ABCB1 expression in NPC cells. IC50 of cisplatin-treated NPC cells was tested utilizing 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated utilizing colony formation experiment and flow cytometry, respectively. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay was utilized to validate the target genes of U2AF2. Notch2 mRNA stability was tested using actinomycin D.

RESULTS

SNHG14 level was increased in both cisplatin-resistant NPC tissues and cell lines. SNHG14 silencing in HNE1/DDP cells resulted in inhibition of chemoresistance to cisplatin. Conversely, upregulation of SNHG14 in HNE1 cells enhanced their resistance to cisplatin. SNHG14 exhibited an interaction with U2AF2, leading to stabilization of Notch2 mRNA. Finally, Notch2 was involved in SNHG14-mediated cisplatin resistance in NPC cells.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate SNHG14 plays a significant role in promoting chemoresistance of NPC cells to cisplatin through U2AF2/Notch2 axis. These results highlight potential therapeutic targets for NPC treatment.

High-throughput single-cell metabolites profiling reveals metabolic reprogramming confers cisplatin resistance in lung cancer

Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Platinum-containing two-drug regimens are the standard first-line chemotherapeutic regimen, but acquired resistance remains a major challenge. Cancer cells can evolve and adapt to therapeutic stress by reprogramming their metabolism and passing on drug resistance to neighboring drug-sensitive cancer cells through cell-to-cell interactions. Here, we have developed a method to study the interactions between cells. Using human lung cancer A549 cells, we constructed a drug-sensitive cell line expressing red fluorescent protein and a cisplatin-resistant cell line. Employing label-free mass cytometry, we acquired metabolites information at the single-cell level. Through pseudotime analysis, we identified two most important clusters of metabolites. We discovered that phosphatidylcholines are strongly associated with drug resistance. Through unsupervised learning, we observed that drug-sensitive cells in co-culture transform into a novel cell state after cisplatin treatment. This method offers a novel tool for investigating the mechanisms underlying the development of cancer cell drug resistance.

Increasing cisplatin exposure promotes small-cell lung cancer transformation after a shift from glucose metabolism to fatty acid metabolism

OBJECTIVES

Lung cancer is a leading cause of global cancer mortality. Clinical observations reveal that histological transformation from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is accompanied by mutations in TP53 and RB1. By applying gradually increasing cisplatin concentrations to mimic the escalating drug pressure within the tumor microenvironment, this study investigated the link between phenotypic transformation to SCLC in cisplatin-resistant human lung adenocarcinoma cells and alterations in cellular energy production pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We established two cisplatin-resistant NSCLC cell lines with varying resistance levels. RNAseq analyses identified TP53 and RB1 gene mutations. Comprehensive functional assays were performed to characterize A549/DDP1 μg/mL and A549/DDP3 μg/mL cells, focusing on proliferation and migratory capabilities. Cellular bioenergetics were assessed through glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation analyses. Western blotting was employed to examine epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism markers. Cell cycle distribution was analyzed by flow cytometry. Additionally, a xenograft mouse model was developed for in vivo validation.

RESULTS

TP53 and RB1 mutations were associated with cisplatin concentration-dependent phenotypic transformation, with A549/DDP cells acquiring a more aggressive SCLC-like phenotype (In the article we call the A549/DDPSCLC cells). Analysis of cell bioenergetics profiling and Western blot analyses revealed enhanced glucose metabolism in A549/DDP1 μg/mL cells, while A549/DDPSCLC cells exhibited predominant lipid metabolism. Compound3K and Etomoxir specifically inhibit the activity of PKM2 and CPT1A, respectively, with Etomoxir demonstrating substantially inhibited A549/DDPSCLC cells growth and more cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase. Combinatorial of Compound3K and Etomoxir effectively induced cell death in A549/DDPSCLC phenotype cells in vitro. Etomoxir alone or combined with Compound3K significantly inhibited tumor growth in vivo, with enhanced efficacy in the combination group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides the first evidence of cisplatin concentration-dependent metabolic reprogramming during NSCLC-to-SCLC transformation. We identified a phenotypic transition from NSCLC to SCLC accompanied by a metabolic shift from glucose to fatty acid metabolism, offering new insights into therapeutic strategies for treatmentresistant lung cancer.

Investigation on bowel regulation and constipation relief based on the microbial fermentation solution of cassia seed

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As digestive health issues rise and interest in natural therapies grows, traditional herbs like Cassia Seed are gaining attention for their antioxidant, laxative, and digestive benefits.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to optimize the fermentation conditions of Cassia seed using microbial technology to enhance the content of anthraquinone compounds, thereby augmenting its pharmacological effects, particularly in promoting intestinal peristalsis and alleviating constipation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fermentation of Cassia Seed was conducted under controlled microbial conditions. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed to analyze the anthraquinone profile of the fermented solution. Mouse model was utilized to evaluate biochemical markers and intestinal functions, while in the zebrafish constipation model, calcein was utilized as a marker to monitor intestinal function and excretion dynamics. Cassia Seed was fermented under controlled microbial conditions. HPLC was employed to analyze the anthraquinone profile of the fermented solution. Mouse models were utilized to evaluate biochemical markers and intestinal functions, while a zebrafish constipation model used calcein as a marker to monitor intestinal function and excretion dynamics.

RESULTS

The optimized fermentation significantly increased the content of anthraquinone compounds, including substances like emodin, aloe-emodin, rhein, chrysophanol, and physcion, as confirmed by HPLC analysis. In a mouse constipation model, the fermented solution reduced nitric oxide (NO) levels while increasing acetylcholine (Ach) and gastrin (Gas) levels, thereby promoting intestinal peristalsis and accelerating bowel movements. Additionally, the fermented solution facilitated repair of the colonic mucosa in mice without significant pathological damage such as degeneration or fibrous tissue proliferation. In the zebrafish model, the fermented Cassia Seed solution reduced calcein fluorescence intensity, indicating enhanced intestinal peristalsis and accelerated bowel movements, thereby decreasing calcein retention time in the body.

CONCLUSION

This study investigated the potential clinical applications of fermented Cassia seed ferment in digestive health, providing a theoretical basis and inspiration for further research and development. Additionally, it offers new insights and possibilities for the development of novel natural medicines or functional foods aimed at improving constipation and promoting intestinal health.

MiR-3664-3p through suppressing ABCG2, CYP3A4, MCL1, and MLH1 increases the sensitivity of colorectal cancer cells to irinotecan

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently diagnosed malignancy worldwide. Currently, irinotecan (CPT-11) is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat patients with advanced CRC. However, the 5-year survival rate for metastatic CRC remains below 10 %, largely due to chemotherapy resistance. Several genes, including ABCG2, CYP3A4, MCL1, and MLH1 contribute to irinotecan resistance. This study aimed to identify microRNAs that simultaneously regulate the expression of these genes in irinotecan-resistant cell lines and study their effect on resistant colorectal cancer cells.

Methods

Irinotecan-resistant colorectal cancer cell lines were developed by intermittently exposing HCT116 and SW480 cell lines to gradually increasing doses of irinotecan over four generations. These resistant cell lines were designated HCT116-R1, HCT116-R2, HCT116-R3, HCT116-R4 and SW480-R1, SW480-R2, SW480-R3, SW480-R4. The induction of resistance was confirmed using MTT assays, by calculating IC50 values for each generation and comparing them to the parental cells. The expression levels of the ABCG2, CYP3A4, MCL1, and MLH1 genes, along with miR-3664-3p, were initially measured in all resistant and parental cell lines using quantitative real-time PCR. Following transfection of HCT116-R3 and SW480-R3 cells with pre-miR-3664-3p, the expression levels of ABCG2, CYP3A4, MCL1, MLH1, and miR-3664-3p were re-evaluated using real-time PCR.

Results

In resistant cell lines derived from HCT116 and SW480, increased expression of the ABCG2, CYP3A4, and MCL1 genes was observed. However, a reduction in CYP3A4 expression was noted in the final resistant lines from both cell lines. Additionally, while MLH1 expression increased in HCT116-derived cell lines, no significant increase was observed in SW480-derived lines. A consistent decrease in miR-3664-3p expression was found across all resistant cell lines. When we transfected HCT116-R3 and SW480-R3 cells with pre-miR-3664-3p, there was an increase in miR-3664-3p expression and a reduction in ABCG2, CYP3A4, MCL1, and MLH1 gene expression. This led to increased sensitivity to irinotecan.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that miR-3664-3p can be considered a regulator of resistance to irinotecan by modulating the expression of ABCG2, CYP3A4, MCL1, and MLH1 genes.

Inhibition of Src Attenuates Stemness and Reverses Cisplatin Resistance of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells

The first-line chemical drug cisplatin used to treat the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) often becomes ineffective due to acquired drug resistance of cancer cells. This effect and related cancer progression are related to the presence of cancer stem cells in the tumor. Tyrosine kinase Src is responsible for the appearance and development of cancer stem cells. Here, we examined the effects of Src on the oncogenic properties of cisplatin-resistant NSCLC cell lines (H358R and A549R) and the effect of inhibition of this tyrosine kinase on the sensitivity of cancer cells to cisplatin by Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining as well as migration, invasion, sphere colony, and clone formation assays. In H358R and A549R cells, the levels of phosphorylated kinase Src (pSrc) and stemness marker CD133 were elevated in comparison with the parental ones. The cisplatin-resistant cells demonstrated increased self-renewal ability and formed significantly bigger tumor spheres than their parental cells. Inhibition of Src with its inhibitor CGP77675 attenuated stemness of H358R and A549R cells; moreover, it enhanced the inhibitory effects of cisplatin on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The data indicated that Src-induced stemness plays an important role in developed resistance of NSCLC cells to cisplatin. Inhibition of Src attenuated stemness and acquired resistance to cisplatin, which can be beneficial for treating the cisplatin-resistant NSCLC.

Decoding the role of SLC25A5 in osteosarcoma drug resistance and CD8+ T cell exhaustion: The therapeutic potential of phyllanthin

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignant bone tumor with an obscure etiology, as well as high prevalence and poor prognosis in children and adolescents. We aimed to investigate the pathogenesis of osteosarcoma through a comprehensive analysis of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) using multiple single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. SLC25A5, a gene implicated in cellular aging, significantly influenced osteosarcoma development by altering the TIME and promoting CD8+ T cell exhaustion, which contributed to reduced chemosensitivity. Experimental validation demonstrated that SLC25A5 enhanced the proliferative, migratory, invasive, and osteolytic properties of drug-resistant osteosarcoma cells while reducing apoptosis, intensifying cisplatin resistance. Phyllanthin inhibited the malignant phenotype of cisplatin-resistant osteosarcoma cells and enhanced their sensitivity to cisplatin by suppressing SLC25A5 expression. This study highlights a novel pathogenic role of SLC25A5 in osteosarcoma and presents Phyllanthin as a promising therapeutic agent. Our study offers a pioneering exploration of the single-cell spatiotemporal evolution of osteosarcoma and identifies SLC25A5 as a critical factor in drug resistance and immune evasion. By integrating advanced single-cell technologies and functional assays, we provided novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying osteosarcoma progression and treatment resistance, facilitating innovative therapeutic strategies.

Sub-toxic cisplatin concentrations induce extensive chromosomal, nuclear and nucleolar abnormalities associated with high malignancy before acquired resistance develops: Implications for clinical caution

AIM

This study investigates the impact of sub-toxic cisplatin levels on nuclear and nucleolar abnormalities and chromosome instability in HeLa cells since our current knowledge of cisplatin effects on these parameters is based on studies with high concentrations of cisplatin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HeLa cells were exposed to gradually increasing sub-toxic doses of cisplatin (0.01 to 0.2 μg/ml). Cells treated with 0.1 and 0.2 μg/ml, termed HeLaC0.1 and HeLaC0.2, were not cisplatin-resistant, only exhibiting a slightly reduced viability, and were termed "cisplatin-sensitized cells." Giemsa and silver staining were used to detect nuclear and nucleolar abnormalities and chromosomal alterations.

RESULTS

Notable abnormalities were observed in HeLaC0.1 and HeLaC0.2 cells after treatment with sub-toxic concentrations of cisplatin: nuclei showed abnormal shapes, blebs, micronuclei, fragmentation, pulverization, and multinucleation; nucleoli exhibited irregular shapes and increased numbers; anaphase cells showed more nucleolar organizing regions. Abnormal chromosome segregation, heightened aneuploidy (81-140 chromosomes), polyploidy, double minutes, dicentrics, chromatid exchanges, chromatid separations, pulverization, and chromosome markers were prominently noted. These abnormalities were intensified in cells pre-sensitized to 0.02 or 0.08 μg/ml cisplatin for seven days, then exposed to 0.03 or 0.1 μg/ml cisplatin for 24 hours, and finally cultured in cisplatin-free medium for 24 hours before chromosome analysis.

CONCLUSION

HeLa cells subjected to increasing concentrations of sub-toxic cisplatin exhibited large-scale, multiple-type abnormalities in nuclei, nucleoli, chromosomes, and chromosomal numbers, indicating genetic/chromosomal instability associated with high malignancy, before the development of cisplatin resistance. These results suggest that low doses of cisplatin administration in the clinical setting may promote malignancy and caution should be used with this type of treatment.

Non-cytotoxic levels of resveratrol enhance the anticancer effects of cisplatin by increasing the methyltransferase activity of CARM1 in human cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol (RSVL) is a plant-derived polyhydroxyphenolic compound with excellent anticancer properties, alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic drugs. However, the anticancer mechanism of RSVL is diverse and high concentrations are often required for RSVL to exert its anticancer effect, which would also adversely affect normal cells.

PURPOSE

The main objective of this study is to investigate the molecular mechanism of how non-cytotoxic concentrations of RSVL enhance the anticancer effect of cisplatin involving a newly identified RSVL-binding protein.

METHODS

Cell viability of cell lines from three cancer types exposed to RSVL and/or cisplatin was measured by NBB staining assay. RSVL-binding proteins were identified using RSVL-bound CNBr-activated Sepharose 4B beads coupled with LC-MS/MS, and the binding between RSVL and novel RSVL-binding protein was further confirmed with an in vitro pull-down assay. The expression of proteins was examined by immunoblot analysis, and the activity of methyltransferase was evaluated by in vitro methylation assay. The methylation level of H3R17 in the gene promoter was investigated using ChIP-qPCR. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to identify pathway enrichment of genes, predict drug sensitivity, and analyze the survival of cancer patients.

RESULTS

Low doses of RSVL might promote cancer cell growth whereas high doses of RSVL showed cytotoxic effects on normal cells. When co-treated with a lower cisplatin dose, non-cytotoxic RSVL levels showed synergistic anticancer effects. Here, coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 (CARM1) was identified as a novel RSVL-binding protein, and we showed that the upregulation of CARM1 increased the sensitivity of cancer cells to RSVL. Interestingly, we found that CARM1 was essential in the RSVL-induced sensitivity of cisplatin. Further molecular mechanistic studies revealed that RSVL could stabilize CARM1 protein, resulting in the upregulation and increased methyltransferase activity of CARM1. Additionally, we showed that the methylation levels of H3R17 in the promoter of p21, a downstream gene of CARM1 involving cell cycle arrest, were significantly increased after RSVL treatment. Finally, data from our bioinformatics analysis suggested that CARM1 could be utilized as a potential biomarker for chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity and prognosis in cancers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified CARM1 as a RSVL-binding protein for the first time and elucidated the potential roles of CARM1 in enhancing the efficacy of cisplatin by low doses of RSVL, which could have important clinical implications.

Advancing rhodium nanoparticle-based photodynamic cancer therapy: quantitative proteomics and in vivo assessment reveal mechanisms targeting tumor metabolism, progression and drug resistance

Rhodium nanoparticles have been recently discovered as good photosensitizers with great potential in cancer photodynamic therapy by effectively inducing cytotoxicity in cancer cells under near-infrared laser. This study evaluates the molecular mechanisms underlying such antitumoral effect through quantitative proteomics. The results revealed that rhodium nanoparticle-based photodynamic therapy disrupts tumor metabolism by downregulating key proteins involved in ATP synthesis and mitochondrial function, leading to compromised energy production. The treatment also induces oxidative stress and apoptosis while targeting the invasion capacity of cancer cells. Additionally, key proteins involved in drug resistance are also affected, demonstrating the efficacy of the treatment in a multi-drug resistant cell line. In vivo evaluation using a chicken embryo model also confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed therapy in reducing tumor growth without affecting embryo viability.

Bufalin: A promising therapeutic drug against the cisplatin-resistance of ovarian cancer by targeting the USP36/c-Myc axis

Cisplatin (DPP) resistance is a severe obstacle to ovarian cancer (OC) treatment. Our research aims to uncover the therapeutic effect and the underlying mechanism of Bufalin against DDP resistance. The cell viability, proliferation capacity, γH2AX expression, and apoptosis ratio were quantified via CCK8 assay, colony formation assay, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry analysis respectively. Xenografting experiment was performed to detect the tumor growth. Molecular docking was applied to mimic the combination of Bufalin and USP36 protein, and Western blotting was conducted to measure the Bax, Bcl-2, γH2AX, USP36, and c-Myc expression. The c-Myc ubiquitination and half-life were detected via ubiquitination assay and cycloheximide chasing assay. Bufalin treatment notably suppressed the cell viability and colony numbers, and increased the apoptosis ratio and γH2AX level in the DDP treatment group. Bufalin therapy also notably inhibited tumor growth, Bax, Bcl-2, and γH2AX expression in vivo. Moreover, the Bufalin application remarkedly reduced the c-Myc expression and half-life and increased the c-Myc ubiquitination via interaction and subsequent down-regulation of USP36. Knockdown of USP36 reversed the antiproliferative effect and proapoptotic capacity of Bufalin therapy in the DDP treatment group. In conclusion, Bufalin can overcome the DDP resistance in vitro and in vivo via the USP36/c-Myc axis, which innovatively suggests the therapeutic potential of Bufalin against DDP resistance ovarian cancer.

Shenqifuzheng injection inhibits lactic acid-induced cisplatin resistance in NSCLC by affecting FBXO22/p53 axis through FOXO3

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 80% of lung cancers. Cisplatin (DDP)-based combination chemotherapy is the main treatment of NSCLC. Due to resistance to DDP, 5-year overall survival rate of NSCLC patients is very low. Shenqifuzheng injection (SQFZ) is essential for lung cancer progression. However, whether SQFZ plays a role in DDP resistance in NSCLC and its molecular mechanism remains unclear.

METHODS

Levels of FOXO3, FBXO22 and p53 in NSCLC tissues and cells were assessed by RT-qPCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were analyzed utilizing CCK-8, Colony formation and Flow cytometry assays. Lactate (LA) levels were tested via ELISA. ChIP and Dual luciferase reporter assays validated regulatory relationship between FOXO3 and FBXO22. Immunoprecipitation assay evaluated p53 ubiquitination levels. The subcutaneous tumor model of nude mice was constructed. TUNEL staining detected apoptosis in tissues, and IHC assessed expression of Ki67, FOXO3, FBXO22 and p53.

RESULTS

FOXO3 was decreased, whereas LA and FBXO22 were increased in NSCLC patients. LA led to a higher DDP resistance in A549/DDP cells, while SQFZ reversed this effect by upregulating FOXO3. Furthermore, FBXO22 was a downstream effecter of FOXO3 and FBXO22 affected p53 ubiquitination to reverse the inhibitory effect of SQFZ. We next found SQFZ inhibited LA-induced DDP resistance in NSCLC via FOXO3/FBXO22/p53 axis. Finally, SQFZ regulated LA-mediated DDP resistance in NSCLC nude mice.

CONCLUSION

SQFZ influences LA-induced DDP resistance in NSCLC via FOXO3/FBXO22/p53 pathway, providing a promising agent for NSCLC treatment.

NPR1 promotes cisplatin resistance by inhibiting PARL-mediated mitophagy-dependent ferroptosis in gastric cancer

Cisplatin-based chemotherapy serves as the standard of care for individuals with advanced stages of gastric cancer. Nevertheless, the emergence of chemoresistance in GC has detrimental impacts on prognosis, yet the underlying mechanisms governing this phenomenon remain elusive. Level of mitophagy and ferroptosis of GC cells were detected by fluorescence, flow cytometry, GSH, MDA, Fe2+ assays, and to explore the specific molecular mechanisms between NPR1 and cisplatin resistance by performing western blot and coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) assays. These results indicates that NPR1 positively correlated with cisplatin-resistance and played a crucial part in conferring resistance to cisplatin in gastric cancer cells. Mechanistically, NPR1 affected levels of mitophagy and ferroptosis in human cisplatin-resistance GC cells with cisplatin treatment. Specifically, NPR1 inhibited mitophagy-dependent ferroptosis by reducing the ubiquitination-mediated degradation of PARL; moreover, NPR1 promoted PARL stabilization by disrupting the PARL-MARCH8 complex, which ultimately led to the development of chemoresistance in GC cells. Considering our findings, NPR1 appears to play an important role in chemotherapy for GC. NPR1 could potentially be used to overcome chemotherapy resistance.

Stephania tetrandra and Its Active Compound Coclaurine Sensitize NSCLC Cells to Cisplatin through EFHD2 Inhibition

BACKGROUND

Adjuvant chemotherapy, particularly cisplatin, is recommended for non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) patients at high risk of recurrence. EF-hand domain-containing protein D2 (EFHD2) has been recently shown to increase cisplatin resistance and is significantly associated with recurrence in early-stage NSCLC patients. Natural products, commonly used as phytonutrients, are also recognized for their potential as pharmaceutical anticancer agents.

RESULT

In this study, a range of Chinese herbs known for their antitumor or chemotherapy-enhancing properties were evaluated for their ability to inhibit EFHD2 expression in NSCLC cells. Among the herbs tested, Stephania tetrandra (S. tetrandra) exhibited the highest efficacy in inhibiting EFHD2 and sensitizing cells to cisplatin. Through LC-MS identification and functional assays, coclaurine was identified as a key molecule in S. tetrandra responsible for EFHD2 inhibition. Coclaurine not only downregulated EFHD2-related NOX4-ABCC1 signaling and enhanced cisplatin sensitivity, but also suppressed the stemness and metastatic properties of NSCLC cells. Mechanistically, coclaurine disrupted the interaction between the transcription factor FOXG1 and the EFHD2 promoter, leading to a reduction in EFHD2 transcription. Silencing FOXG1 further inhibited EFHD2 expression and sensitized NSCLC cells to cisplatin.

CONCLUSIONS

S. tetrandra and its active compound coclaurine may serve as effective adjuvant therapies to improve cisplatin efficacy in the treatment of NSCLC.

Electroporation enhances cell death in 3D scaffold-based MDA-MB-231 cells treated with metformin

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors and hence, is therapeutically challenging. Towards this, we studied an alternate therapy by repurposing metformin (FDA-approved type-2 diabetic drug with anticancer properties) in a 3D-scaffold culture, with electrical pulses. 3D cell culture was used to simulate the tumor microenvironment more closely and MDA-MB-231, human TNBC cells, treated with both 5 mM metformin (Met) and 8 electrical pulses at 2500 V/cm, 10 µs (EP1) and 800 V/cm, 100 µs (EP2) at 1 Hz were studied in 3D and 2D. They were characterized using cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), glucose uptake, and lactate production assays at 24 h. Cell viability, as low as 20 % was obtained with EP1 + 5 mM Met. They exhibited 1.65-fold lower cell viability than 2D with EP1 + 5 mM Met. ROS levels indicated a 2-fold increase in oxidative stress for EP1 + 5 mM Met, while the glucose uptake was limited to only 9 %. No significant change in the lactate production indicated glycolytic arrest and a non-conducive environment for MDA-MB-231 growth. Our results indicate that 3D cell culture, with a more realistic tumor environment that enhances cell death using metformin and electrical pulses could be a promising approach for TNBC therapeutic intervention studies.

The Gut Microbial Lipid Metabolite 14(15)-EpETE Inhibits Substance P Release by Targeting GCG/PKA Signaling to Relieve Cisplatin-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Rats

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a debilitating side effect related to activation of substance P (SP). SP activation can result from dysregulation of the gut-brain axis, and also from activation of protein kinase A signaling (PKA) signaling. In this study, we connected these factors in an attempt to unveil the mechanisms underlying CINV and develop new therapeutic strategies. Female rats were injected with cisplatin (Cis) to induce pica. Fecal samples were collected before/after injection, and subjected to lipid metabolomics analysis. In another portion of pica rats, the PKA inhibitor KT5720 was applied to investigate the involvement of PKA signaling in CINV, while fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was implemented to verify the therapeutic effect of the lipid metabolite 14(15)-EpETE. Pica symptoms were recorded, followed by ileal histological examination. The targeting relationship between 14(15)-EpETE and glucagon was determined by bioinformatics. SP and glucagon/PKA signaling in rat ileum, serum, and/or brain substantia nigra were detected by immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and/or western blot. The results showed a significantly lower level of 14(15)-EpETE in rat feces after Cis injection. KT5720 treatment alleviated Cis-induced pica symptoms, ileal injury, SP content increase in the ileum, serum, and brain substantia nigra, and ileal PKA activation in rats. The ileal level of glucagon was elevated by Cis in rats. FMT exerted an effect similar to that of KT5720 treatment, relieving the Cis-induced changes, including ileal glucagon/PKA activation in rats. Our findings demonstrate that FMT restores 14(15)-EpETE production, which inhibits SP release by targeting GCG/PKA signaling, ultimately mitigating CINV.

FoxG1/BNIP3 axis promotes mitophagy and blunts cisplatin resistance in osteosarcoma

Cisplatin (CDDP) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic for osteosarcoma (OS) patients, and drug resistance remains as a major hurdle to undermine the treatment outcome. Here, we investigated the potential involvement of FoxG1 and BNIP3 in CDDP resistance of OS cells. FoxG1 and BNIP3 expression levels were detected in the CDDP-sensitive and CDDP-resistant OS tumors and cell lines. Mitophagy was observed through transmission electron microscope analysis. The sensitivity to CDDP in OS cells upon FoxG1 overexpression was examined in cell and animal models. We found that FoxG1 and BNIP3 showed significant downregulation in the CDDP-resistant OS tumor samples and cell lines. CDDP-resistant OS tumor specimens and cells displayed impaired mitophagy. FoxG1 overexpression promoted BNIP3 expression, enhanced mitophagy in CDDP-resistant OS cells, and resensitized the resistant cells to CDDP treatment in vitro and in vivo. Our data highlighted the role of the FoxG1/BNIP3 axis in regulating mitophagy and dictating CDDP resistance in OS cells, suggesting targeting FoxG1/BNIP3-dependent mitophagy as a potential strategy to overcome CDDP resistance in OS.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress and quality control in relation to cisplatin resistance in tumor cells

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a crucial organelle that orchestrates key cellular functions like protein folding and lipid biosynthesis. However, it is highly sensitive to disturbances that lead to ER stress. In response, the unfolded protein response (UPR) activates to restore ER homeostasis, primarily through three sensors: IRE1, ATF6, and PERK. ERAD and autophagy are crucial in mitigating ER stress, yet their dysregulation can lead to the accumulation of misfolded proteins. Cisplatin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug, induces ER stress in tumor cells, activating complex signaling pathways. Resistance to cisplatin stems from reduced drug accumulation, activation of DNA repair, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Notably, cisplatin-induced ER stress can dualistically affect tumor cells, promoting either survival or apoptosis, depending on the context. ERAD is crucial for degrading misfolded proteins, whereas autophagy can protect cells from apoptosis or enhance ER stress-induced apoptosis. The complex interaction between ER stress, cisplatin resistance, ERAD, and autophagy opens new avenues for cancer treatment. Understanding these processes could lead to innovative strategies that overcome chemoresistance, potentially improving outcomes of cisplatin-based cancer treatments. This comprehensive review provides a multifaceted perspective on the complex mechanisms of ER stress, cisplatin resistance, and their implications in cancer therapy.

Pioglitazone enhances cisplatin's impact on triple-negative breast cancer: Role of PPARγ in cell apoptosis

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) has been recently shown to play a role in many cancers. The breast tissue of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients were found to have a significantly lower expression of PPARγ than the other subtypes. Furthermore, PPARγ activation was found to exert anti-tumor effects by inhibiting cell proliferation, differentiation, cell growth, cell cycle, and inducing apoptosis. To start with, we performed a bioinformatic analysis of data from OncoDB, which showed a lower expression pattern of PPARγ in different cancer types. In addition, high expression of PPARγ was associated with better breast cancer patient survival. Therefore, we tested the impact of pioglitazone, a PPARγ ligand, on the cytotoxic activity of cisplatin in the TNBC cell line. MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with either cisplatin (40 μM) with or without pioglitazone (30 or 60 μM) for 72 h. The MTT results showed a significant dose-dependent decrease in cell viability as a result of using cisplatin and pioglitazone combination compared with cisplatin alone. In addition, the protein expression of Bcl-2, a known antiapoptotic marker, decreased in the cells treated with cisplatin and pioglitazone combination at doses of 40 and 30 μM, respectively. On the other hand, cleaved- poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) and -caspase-9, which are known as pro-apoptotic markers, were upregulated in the combination group compared with the solo treatments. Taken together, the addition of pioglitazone to cisplatin further reduced the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells and enhanced apoptosis compared with chemotherapy alone.

Autophagy-driven regulation of cisplatin response in human cancers: Exploring molecular and cell death dynamics

Despite the challenges posed by drug resistance and side effects, chemotherapy remains a pivotal strategy in cancer treatment. A key issue in this context is macroautophagy (commonly known as autophagy), a dysregulated cell death mechanism often observed during chemotherapy. Autophagy plays a cytoprotective role by maintaining cellular homeostasis and recycling organelles, and emerging evidence points to its significant role in promoting cancer progression. Cisplatin, a DNA-intercalating agent known for inducing cell death and cell cycle arrest, often encounters resistance in chemotherapy treatments. Recent studies have shown that autophagy can contribute to cisplatin resistance or insensitivity in tumor cells through various mechanisms. This resistance can be mediated by protective autophagy, which suppresses apoptosis. Additionally, autophagy-related changes in tumor cell metastasis, particularly the induction of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), can also lead to cisplatin resistance. Nevertheless, pharmacological strategies targeting the regulation of autophagy and apoptosis offer promising avenues to enhance cisplatin sensitivity in cancer therapy. Notably, numerous non-coding RNAs have been identified as regulators of autophagy in the context of cisplatin chemotherapy. Thus, therapeutic targeting of autophagy or its associated pathways holds potential for restoring cisplatin sensitivity, highlighting an important direction for future clinical research.

Cisplatin-Resistant Urothelial Bladder Cancer Cells Undergo Metabolic Reprogramming beyond the Warburg Effect

Advanced urothelial bladder cancer (UBC) patients are tagged by a dismal prognosis and high mortality rates, mostly due to their poor response to standard-of-care platinum-based therapy. Mediators of chemoresistance are not fully elucidated. This work aimed to study the metabolic profile of advanced UBC, in the context of cisplatin resistance. Three isogenic pairs of parental cell lines (T24, HT1376 and KU1919) and the matching cisplatin-resistant (R) sublines were used. A set of functional assays was used to perform a metabolic screening on the cells. In comparison to the parental sublines, a tendency was observed towards an exacerbated glycolytic metabolism in the cisplatin-resistant T24 and HT1376 cells; this glycolytic phenotype was particularly evident for the HT1376/HT1376R pair, for which the cisplatin resistance ratio was higher. HT1376R cells showed decreased basal respiration and oxygen consumption associated with ATP production; in accordance, the extracellular acidification rate was also higher in the resistant subline. Glycolytic rate assay confirmed that these cells presented higher basal glycolysis, with an increase in proton efflux. While the results of real-time metabolomics seem to substantiate the manifestation of the Warburg phenotype in HT1376R cells, a shift towards distinct metabolic pathways involving lactate uptake, lipid biosynthesis and glutamate metabolism occurred with time. On the other hand, KU1919R cells seem to engage in a metabolic rewiring, recovering their preference for oxidative phosphorylation. In conclusion, cisplatin-resistant UBC cells seem to display deep metabolic alterations surpassing the Warburg effect, which likely depend on the molecular signature of each cell line.

USP28 promotes tumorigenesis and cisplatin resistance by deubiquitinating MAST1 protein in cancer cells

Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug that causes a plethora of DNA lesions and inhibits DNA transcription and replication, resulting in the induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. However, over time, patients develop resistance to cisplatin due to repeated treatment and thus the treatment efficacy is limited. Therefore, identifying an alternative therapeutic strategy combining cisplatin treatment along with targeting factors that drive cisplatin resistance is needed. CRISPR/Cas9 system-based genome-wide screening for the deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) subfamily identified USP28 as a potential DUB that governs cisplatin resistance. USP28 regulates the protein level of microtubule-associated serine/threonine kinase 1 (MAST1), a common kinase whose expression is elevated in several cisplatin-resistant cancer cells. The expression level and protein turnover of MAST1 is a major factor driving cisplatin resistance in many cancer types. Here we report that the USP28 interacts and extends the half-life of MAST1 protein by its deubiquitinating activity. The expression pattern of USP28 and MAST1 showed a positive correlation across a panel of tested cancer cell lines and human clinical tissues. Additionally, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knockout of USP28 in A549 and NCI-H1299 cells blocked MAST1-driven cisplatin resistance, resulting in suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation ability, migration and invasion in vitro. Finally, loss of USP28 destabilized MAST1 protein and attenuated tumor growth by sensitizing cells to cisplatin treatment in mouse xenograft model. We envision that targeting the USP28-MAST1 axis along with cisplatin treatment might be an alternative therapeutic strategy to overcome cisplatin resistance in cancer patients.

Cancer Mutations Converge on a Collection of Protein Assemblies to Predict Resistance to Replication Stress

Rapid proliferation is a hallmark of cancer associated with sensitivity to therapeutics that cause DNA replication stress (RS). Many tumors exhibit drug resistance, however, via molecular pathways that are incompletely understood. Here, we develop an ensemble of predictive models that elucidate how cancer mutations impact the response to common RS-inducing (RSi) agents. The models implement recent advances in deep learning to facilitate multidrug prediction and mechanistic interpretation. Initial studies in tumor cells identify 41 molecular assemblies that integrate alterations in hundreds of genes for accurate drug response prediction. These cover roles in transcription, repair, cell-cycle checkpoints, and growth signaling, of which 30 are shown by loss-of-function genetic screens to regulate drug sensitivity or replication restart. The model translates to cisplatin-treated cervical cancer patients, highlighting an RTK-JAK-STAT assembly governing resistance. This study defines a compendium of mechanisms by which mutations affect therapeutic responses, with implications for precision medicine.

SIGNIFICANCE

Zhao and colleagues use recent advances in machine learning to study the effects of tumor mutations on the response to common therapeutics that cause RS. The resulting predictive models integrate numerous genetic alterations distributed across a constellation of molecular assemblies, facilitating a quantitative and interpretable assessment of drug response. This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 384.

Horizontal transfer of miR-383 sensitise cells to cisplatin by targeting VEGFA-Akt signalling loop

BACKGROUND

Cellular resistance to cisplatin has been one of the major obstacles in the success of combination therapy for many types of cancers. Emerging evidences suggest that exosomes released by drug resistant tumour cells play significant role in conferring resistance to drug sensitive cells by means of horizontal transfer of genetic materials such as miRNAs. Though exosomal miRNAs have been reported to confer drug resistance, the exact underlying mechanisms are still unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the present study, mature miRNAs secreted differentially by cisplatin resistant and cisplatin sensitive HepG2 cells were profiled and the effect of most significantly lowered miRNA in conferring cisplatin resistance when horizontally transferred, was analysed. we report miR-383 to be present at the lowest levels among the differentially abundant miRNAs expressed in exosomes secreted by cisplatin resistant cells compared to that that of cisplatin sensitive cells. We therefore, checked the effect of ectopic expression of miR-383 in altering cisplatin sensitivity of Hela cells. Drug sensitivity assay and apoptotic assays revealed that miR-383 could sensitise cells to cisplatin by targeting VEGF and its downstream Akt mediated pathway.

CONCLUSION

Results presented here provide evidence for the important role of miR-383 in regulating cisplatin sensitivity by modulating VEGF signalling loop upon horizontal transfer across different cell types.

Role of Epigenetics for the Efficacy of Cisplatin

The clinical utility of the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin is restricted by cancer drug resistance, which is either intrinsic to the tumor or acquired during therapy. Epigenetics is increasingly recognized as a factor contributing to cisplatin resistance and hence influences drug efficacy and clinical outcomes. In particular, epigenetics regulates gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Common types of epigenetic modifications linked to chemoresistance are DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. This review provides an overview of the current findings of various epigenetic modifications related to cisplatin efficacy in cell lines in vitro and in clinical tumor samples. Furthermore, it discusses whether epigenetic alterations might be used as predictors of the platinum agent response in order to prevent avoidable side effects in patients with resistant malignancies. In addition, epigenetic targeting therapies are described as a possible strategy to render cancer cells more susceptible to platinum drugs.

Vitamin B12 Protects against Genotoxicity Induced by Cisplatin

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is an effective synthetic chemotherapeutic drug used for cancer treatment. Vitamin B12 has been shown to possess anti-genotoxic activity. This study aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin B12 on chromosomal damage induced by cisplatin.

METHODS

The level of sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) and chromosomal aberrations (CAs) were measured in cultured human blood lymphocytes treated with cisplatin and/or vitamin B12.

RESULTS

The results showed a significantly elevated frequency of CAs and SCEs of cisplatin-treated cultures compared to the control (P < 0.05). The CAs and SCEs induced by cisplatin were significantly lowered by pretreatment of cell cultures with vitamin B12. In addition, cisplatin caused a slight reduction in the mitotic index (MI), while vitamin B12 did not modulate the effect of cisplatin on MI.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin B12 can protect human lymphocytes against genotoxicity associated with cisplatin.

Copper(II) Complexes with 1-(Isoquinolin-3-yl)heteroalkyl-2-ones: Synthesis, Structure and Evaluation of Anticancer, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential

Four copper(II) complexes, C1-4, derived from 1-(isoquinolin-3-yl)heteroalkyl-2-one ligands L1-4 were synthesized and characterized using an elemental analysis, IR spectroscopic data as well as single crystal X-ray diffraction data for complex C1. The stability of complexes C1-4 under conditions mimicking the physiological environment was estimated using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The antiproliferative activity of both ligands L1-4 and copper(II) compounds C1-4 were evaluated using an MTT assay on four human cancer cell lines, A375 (melanoma), HepG2 (hepatoma), LS-180 (colon cancer) and T98G (glioblastoma), and a non-cancerous cell line, CCD-1059Sk (human normal skin fibroblasts). Complexes C1-4 showed greater potency against HepG2, LS180 and T98G cancer cell lines than etoposide (IC50 = 5.04-14.89 μg/mL vs. IC50 = 43.21->100 μg/mL), while free ligands L1-4 remained inactive in all cell lines. The prominent copper(II) compound C2 appeared to be more selective towards cancer cells compared with normal cells than compounds C1, C3 and C4. The treatment of HepG2 and T98G cells with complex C2 resulted in sub-G1 and G2/M cell cycle arrest, respectively, which was accompanied by DNA degradation. Moreover, the non-cytotoxic doses of C2 synergistically enhanced the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic drugs, including etoposide, 5-fluorouracil and temozolomide, in HepG2 and T98G cells. The antimicrobial activities of ligands L2-4 and their copper(II) complexes C2-4 were evaluated using different types of Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria and yeast species. No correlation was found between the results of the antiproliferative and antimicrobial experiments. The antioxidant activities of all compounds were determined using the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging methods. Antiradical tests revealed that among the investigated compounds, copper(II) complex C4 possessed the strongest antioxidant properties. Finally, the ADME technique was used to determine the physicochemical and drug-likeness properties of the obtained complexes.

Downregulation of BUBR1 regulates the proliferation and cell cycle of breast cancer cells and increases the sensitivity of cells to cisplatin

Breast cancer (BC) is a significant tissue for women's health worldwide. The spindle assembly checkpoint protein family includes BUBR1 (Bub1-related kinase or MAD3/Bub1b). High expression of BUBR1 promotes cell cycle disorders, leading to cell carcinogenesis and cancer progression. However, the underlying molecular mechanism and the role of BUBR1 in BC progression are unclear. The published dataset was analyzed to evaluate the clinical relevance of BUBR1. BUBR1 was knocked down in BC cells using shRNA. The CCK-8 assay was used to measure the cell viability, and mRNA and protein expression levels were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot (WB). Cell apoptosis and cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. Subcutaneous xenograft model was used to assess in vivo tumor growth. BUBR1 was found to be highly expressed in BC. The high expression of BUBR1 was associated with poor prognosis of BC patients. Upon BUBR1 knockdown using shRNA, the proliferation and metastatic ability of cells were decreased. Moreover, the cells with BUBR1 knockdown underwent cell cycle arrest. And the results showed that BUBR1 loss inhibited the phosphorylation of TAK1/JNK. In vitro and in vivo studies indicated the knockdown of BUBR1 rendered the BC cells more sensitive to cisplatin. In summary, BUBR1 may be a potential therapeutic target for BC and targeting BUBR1 may help overcome cisplatin resistance in BC patients.

The Potential of Glycyrrhiza from "Medicine Food Homology" in the Fight against Digestive System Tumors

Glycyrrhiza has a long history of applications and a wide range of pharmacological effects. It is known as the "king of all herbs". Glycyrrhiza is effective in clearing heat, detoxifying, relieving cough, and tonifying qi and has good bioactivity in multiple inflammatory, immune, and tumor diseases. This review aims to summarize the origin, distribution, and anti-digestive system tumor mechanism of glycyrrhiza and its homologous applications in medicine and food. The active compounds include triterpenoids, flavonoids, and coumarins, which are widely used in clinical treatments, disease prevention, and daily foods because of their "enhancement of efficacy" and "reduction of toxicity" against digestive system tumors. This paper reviews the use of glycyrrhiza in digestive system tumors and provides an outlook on future research and clinical applications.

Long noncoding RNA LINC00482 silencing sensitizes non-small cell lung cancer cells to cisplatin by downregulating CLASRP via E2F1

Long noncoding RNA LINC00482 (LINC00482) is dysregulated in non-small cell lung cancer cells (NSCLC). Herein, this research examined the actions and specific mechanisms of LINC00482 in cisplatin (DDP) resistance in NSCLC. LINC00482 expression was assessed using RT-qPCR in clinical NSCLC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown and ectopic expression assays were conducted in A549 and HCC44 cells, followed by determination of cell proliferation with CCK-8 and clone formation assays, apoptosis with flow cytometry, and DDP sensitivity. The association between LINC00482, E2F1, and CLASRP was evaluated with dual-luciferase reporter, ChIP, and RIP assays. The role of LINC00482 in NSCLC was confirmed in nude mice. NSCLC tissues and cells had upregulated LINC00482 expression. LINC00482 was mainly localized in the cell nucleus, and LINC00482 recruited E2F1 to enhance CLASRP expression in NSCLC cells. LINC00482 knockdown enhanced the DDP sensitivity and apoptosis of NSCLC cells while reducing cell proliferation, which was negated by overexpressing CLASRP. LINC00482 knockdown restricted tumor growth and enhanced DDP sensitivity in NSCLC in vivo. LINC00482 silencing downregulated CLASRP through E2F1 to facilitate the sensitivity to DDP in NSCLC.

Molecular Networks of Platinum Drugs and Their Interaction with microRNAs in Cancer

The precise mechanism of resistance to anti-cancer drugs such as platinum drugs is not fully revealed. To reveal the mechanism of drug resistance, the molecular networks of anti-cancer drugs such as cisplatin, carboplatin, oxaliplatin, and arsenic trioxide were analyzed in several types of cancers. Since diffuse-type stomach adenocarcinoma, which has epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like characteristics, is more malignant than intestinal-type stomach adenocarcinoma, the gene expression and molecular networks in diffuse- and intestinal-type stomach adenocarcinomas were analyzed. Analysis of carboplatin revealed the causal network in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The upstream regulators of the molecular networks of cisplatin-treated lung adenocarcinoma included the anti-cancer drug trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor. The upstream regulator analysis of cisplatin revealed an increase in FAS, BTG2, SESN1, and CDKN1A, and the involvement of the tumor microenvironment pathway. The molecular networks were predicted to interact with several microRNAs, which may contribute to the identification of new drug targets for drug-resistant cancer. Analysis of oxaliplatin, a platinum drug, revealed that the SPINK1 pancreatic cancer pathway is inactivated in ischemic cardiomyopathy. The study showed the importance of the molecular networks of anti-cancer drugs and tumor microenvironment in the treatment of cancer resistant to anti-cancer drugs.

Increased Expression of the ABCA1 and ABCA3 Transporter Genes is Associated with Cisplatin Resistance in Breast Cancer Cells

OBJECTIVE

Breast cancer (BC) is a highly malignant neoplasm with resistance to therapeutics that are related to genes associated with multidrug resistance. The excessive expression of ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABCs) genes, including ABCA1 and ABCA3, is a primary factor contributing to the increased effluent of cell-toxic drugs and subsequent treatment resistance. Therefore, the current work aimed to explore the role of ABCA1 and ABCA3 in chemoresistance activity against cisplatin in breast cancer cells.

METHODS

The current study compared the AMJ13 breast cancer cells derived from a woman Iraqi patient, which are hormone receptor-negative, with MCF-7 breast cancer cells, which are hormone receptor-positive.  Cytotoxic assay (CCK-8 assay) is used to measure the cell's viability and cytotoxic activity after it has been treated with cisplatin. Morphological Study using crystal violet stain to examine cytological changes was conducted. Quantitative RT-PCR is used to measure how much the ABCA1, and 3 genes mRNA are being expressed before and after treatment.

RESULTS

The CCK-8 assay found that IC50 values of cisplatin in AMJ13 and MCF-7 cells were 202.2 µg/ml and 90.23 µg/ml, respectively. The IC50 value of AMJ13 is 2-fold higher than in MCF-7 cells. The QPCR study revealed that breast cancer cell lines AMJ13 and MCF-7 subjected to cisplatin showed upregulated levels of ABCA1 and ABCA3 expression. Experiments with cytotoxicity assays demonstrate that higher expression of ABCA1 and ABCA3 in AMJ13 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines is linked to their resistance.  Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the ABCA1 and ABCA3 transporters play a significant role in the resistance to cisplatin and,.

Hydroxamic Acids Containing a Bicyclic Pinane Backbone as Epigenetic and Metabolic Regulators: Synergizing Agents to Overcome Cisplatin Resistance

Multidrug resistance is the dominant obstacle to effective chemotherapy for malignant neoplasms. It is well known that neoplastic cells use a wide range of adaptive mechanisms to form and maintain resistance against antitumor agents, which makes it urgent to identify promising therapies to solve this problem. Hydroxamic acids are biologically active compounds and in recent years have been actively considered to be potentially promising drugs of various pharmacological applications. In this paper, we synthesized a number of hydroxamic acids containing a p-substituted cinnamic acid core and bearing bicyclic pinane fragments, including derivatives of (-)-myrtenol, (+)-myrtenol and (-)-nopol, as a Cap-group. Among the synthesized compounds, the most promising hydroxamic acid was identified, containing a fragment of (-)-nopol in the Cap group 18c. This compound synergizes with cisplatin to increase its anticancer effect and overcomes cisplatin resistance, which may be associated with the inhibition of histone deacetylase 1 and glycolytic function. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the use of hydroxamic acids with a bicyclic pinane backbone can be considered to be an effective approach to the eradication of tumor cells and overcoming drug resistance in the treatment of malignant neoplasms.

Deciphering key genes involved in cisplatin resistance in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma through a combined in silico and in vitro approach

The low survival rate of Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) patients is largely attributed to cisplatin resistance. Rather than focusing solely on individual proteins, exploring protein-protein interactions could offer greater insight into drug resistance. To this end, a series of in silico and in vitro experiments were conducted to identify hub genes in the intricate network of cisplatin resistance-related genes in KIRC chemotherapy. The genes involved in cisplatin resistance across KIRC were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database using search terms as "Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma" and "Cisplatin resistance". The genes retrieved were analyzed for hub gene identification using the STRING database and Cytoscape tool. Expression and promoter methylation profiling of the hub genes was done using UALCAN, GEPIA, OncoDB, and HPA databases. Mutational, survival, functional enrichment, immune cell infiltration, and drug prediction analyses of the hub genes were performed using the cBioPortal, GEPIA, GSEA, TIMER, and DrugBank databases. Lastly, expression and methylation levels of the hub genes were validated on two cisplatin-resistant RCC cell lines (786-O and A-498) and a normal renal tubular epithelial cell line (HK-2) using two high throughput techniques, including targeted bisulfite sequencing (bisulfite-seq) and RT-qPCR. A total of 124 genes were identified as being associated with cisplatin resistance in KIRC. Out of these genes, MCL1, IGF1R, CCND1, and PTEN were identified as hub genes and were found to have significant (p < 0.05) variations in their mRNA and protein expressions and effects on the overall survival (OS) of the KIRC patients. Moreover, an aberrant promoter methylation pattern was found to be associated with the dysregulation of the hub genes. In addition to this, hub genes were also linked with different cisplatin resistance-causing pathways. Thus, hub genes can be targeted with Alvocidib, Estradiol, Tretinoin, Capsaicin, Dronabinol, Metribolone, Calcitriol, Acetaminophen, Acitretin, Cyclosporine, Azacitidine, Genistein, and Resveratrol drugs. As the pathogenesis of KIRC is complex, targeting hub genes and associated pathways involved in cisplatin resistance could bring a milestone change in the drug discovery and management of drug resistance, which might uplift overall survival among KIRC patients.

Circulating circRNA: a social butterfly in tumors

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of single-stranded non-coding RNAs that form circular structures through irregular splicing or post-splicing events. CircRNAs are abnormally expressed in many cancers and regulate the occurrence and development of tumors. Circulating circRNAs are cell-free circRNAs present in peripheral blood, they are considered promising biomarkers due to their high stability. In recent years, more and more studies have revealed that circulating circRNAs participate in various cellular communication and regulate the occurrence and development of tumors, which involve many pathological processes such as tumorigenesis, tumor-related immunity, tumor angiogenesis, and tumor metastasis. Understanding the role of cell communication mediated by circulating circRNAs in tumor will further reveal the value and significance behind their use as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the recent findings and provide an overview of the cell-cell communication mediated by circulating circRNAs, aiming to explore the role and application value of circulating circRNAs in tumors.

Cisplatin in Liver Cancer Therapy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver tumor and is often diagnosed at an unresectable advanced stage. Systemic chemotherapy as well as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) are used to treat advanced HCC. TACE and HAIC have long been the standard of care for patients with unresectable HCC but are limited to the treatment of intrahepatic lesions. Systemic chemotherapy with doxorubicin or chemohormonal therapy with tamoxifen have also been considered, but neither has demonstrated survival benefits. In the treatment of unresectable advanced HCC, cisplatin is administered transhepatic arterially for local treatment. Subsequently, for cisplatin-refractory cases due to drug resistance, a shift to systemic therapy with a different mechanism of action is expected to produce new antitumor effects. Cisplatin is also used for the treatment of liver tumors other than HCC. This review summarizes the action and resistance mechanism of cisplatin and describes the treatment of the major hepatobiliary cancers for which cisplatin is used as an anticancer agent, with a focus on HCC.

Circular RNAs in gynecologic cancers: mechanisms and implications for chemotherapy resistance

Chemotherapy resistance remains a major challenge in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies. Increasing evidence suggests that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a significant role in conferring chemoresistance in these cancers. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the mechanisms by which circRNAs regulate chemotherapy sensitivity and resistance in gynecologic malignancies. We also discuss the potential clinical implications of these findings and highlight areas for future research. CircRNAs are a novel class of RNA molecules that are characterized by their unique circular structure, which confers increased stability and resistance to degradation by exonucleases. Recent studies have shown that circRNAs can act as miRNA sponges, sequestering miRNAs and preventing them from binding to their target mRNAs. This can lead to upregulation of genes involved in drug resistance pathways, ultimately resulting in decreased sensitivity to chemotherapy. We discuss several specific examples of circRNAs that have been implicated in chemoresistance in gynecologic cancers, including cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. We also highlight the potential clinical applications of circRNA-based biomarkers for predicting chemotherapy response and guiding treatment decisions. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the role of circRNAs in chemotherapy resistance in gynecologic malignancies. By elucidating the underlying mechanisms by which circRNAs regulate drug sensitivity, this work has important implications for improving patient outcomes and developing more effective therapeutic strategies for these challenging cancers.

Systematic identification of anticancer drug targets reveals a nucleus-to-mitochondria ROS-sensing pathway

Multiple anticancer drugs have been proposed to cause cell death, in part, by increasing the steady-state levels of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, for most of these drugs, exactly how the resultant ROS function and are sensed is poorly understood. It remains unclear which proteins the ROS modify and their roles in drug sensitivity/resistance. To answer these questions, we examined 11 anticancer drugs with an integrated proteogenomic approach identifying not only many unique targets but also shared ones-including ribosomal components, suggesting common mechanisms by which drugs regulate translation. We focus on CHK1 that we find is a nuclear H2O2 sensor that launches a cellular program to dampen ROS. CHK1 phosphorylates the mitochondrial DNA-binding protein SSBP1 to prevent its mitochondrial localization, which in turn decreases nuclear H2O2. Our results reveal a druggable nucleus-to-mitochondria ROS-sensing pathway-required to resolve nuclear H2O2 accumulation and mediate resistance to platinum-based agents in ovarian cancers.

Exploring the Use of Cold Atmospheric Plasma to Overcome Drug Resistance in Cancer

Drug resistance is a major problem in cancer treatment, as it limits the effectiveness of pharmacological agents and can lead to disease progression. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a technology that uses ionized gas (plasma) to generate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) that can kill cancer cells. CAP is a novel approach for overcoming drug resistance in cancer. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using CAP to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms behind this phenomenon and explore its potential applications in cancer treatment. Going through the existing literature on CAP and drug resistance in cancer, we highlight the challenges and opportunities for further research in this field. Our review suggests that CAP could be a promising option for overcoming drug resistance in cancer and warrants further investigation.